In training to become a neurosurgeon, many crucial manual skills must be acquired through growing experience during the rigorous and lengthy training process. However, many essential practical skills can quickly be learned, practiced, and even mastered away from the operating room. The author's motivation for writing this guide arose during his own training and his need for such a practical aid. "Getting Ready for Brain Surgery" provides readers with a basic set of exercises that will allow them to develop and improve their motor skills, handling of various tissues, and general technical competence. Detailed instructions are given in the illustrated text and accompanying videos. Topics include: planning and visualization of the procedure, the craniotomy using a coconut, working with the microscope, removing a gyrus through subapial resection, and removing a brain tumor.